Outdoor exercise equipment

ABSTRACT

An outdoor exercise apparatus is configured to mount and dis-mount from a tree or like structure. These configurations may comprise a collapsible frame with members that can support hanging weight. A strap wraps around the tree to help secure the frame to the tree. In use, the frame and strap create a cantilevered weighting mechanism that secures the apparatus in position in lieu of end user intervention. The device is further arranged to transit between different positions on the tree without end use intervention as well.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of provisional application U.S. Ser. No. 63/023,018, filed on May 11, 2020, and entitled OUTDOOR EXERCISE EQUIPMENT. The content of this application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Many individuals opt to exercise at home. These individuals may invest in certain equipment to facilitate exercises that improve cardio-vascular health or increase muscle strength and tone. Free weights or resistance machines are popular strength-training devices. However, individuals also benefit from exercises that utilize their own bodyweight, like pull-ups, chin-ups, and dips, among others. Devices for these movements may need to “hard” mount to structure (e.g., floor joists) in the home that can support the weight. Certain designs, though, insert into door frames or door jams and leverage an individual's own body weight as a mechanism of support. These devices find favor because they can port from one place to another inside the home, office, or hotel.

Portability is also a key requirement of individuals that wish to exercise outdoors. For many, an outdoor training regimen may include “in-home” exercises (e.g., pull-ups, chin-ups, dips, etc.) that they perform on natural formations, like tree branches along a walking or running path in a forest. But it is sometimes difficult to readily find formations that suit both the movement of the exercise and the individual's physical characteristics (e.g., weight, height, etc.).

SUMMARY

This disclosure describes exercise equipment that addresses these concerns. Of particular interest are embodiments that facilitate use on a tree or other formations or structures. This feature may prove useful to those that like to exercise outdoors, for example, as part of a training regime that combines trail running with periodic, on-trail resistance or weight training. The embodiments may have a collapsible frame that reduces in form factor for transport to a preferred location (that might be found on a trail run). In one implementation, the frame can form part of a bag (e.g., a backpack) that the end use can wear in transit to the structure. The end user can reassemble this frame quickly in position on the structure, preferably without tools or like implements. The design also allows an end user to elevate (and lower) the device to preferred positions conducive to certain exercise movements.

DRAWINGS

Reference is now made briefly to the accompanying drawings, in which.

FIG. 1 depicts a schematic diagram of a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an exercise apparatus;

FIG. 2 depicts the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1 in exploded form;

FIG. 3 depicts a schematic diagram of an elevation view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1 in an assembly position;

FIG. 4 depicts the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1 in a transitory position;

FIG. 5 depicts the exercise apparatus of FIG. 3 in an exercise position;

FIG. 6 depicts a schematic diagram of a plan view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 depicts a schematic diagram of a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an exercise apparatus;

FIG. 8 depicts a schematic diagram of an elevation view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of an example of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of the example of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of the example of FIGS. 9; and

FIG. 12 depicts a perspective view of an example of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1.

Where applicable, like reference characters designate identical or corresponding components and units throughout the several views, which are not to scale unless otherwise indicated. The embodiments disclosed herein may include elements that appear in one or more of the several views or in combinations of the several views. Moreover, methods are exemplary only and may be modified by, for example, reordering, adding, removing, and/or altering the individual stages.

These drawings, along with any description here, use examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. An element or function recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural said elements or functions, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited. References to “one embodiment” of the claimed invention should not be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Furthermore, the claims are but some examples that define the patentable scope of the invention. This scope may include and contemplate other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

DESCRIPTION

The discussion below describes various features for the design of the exercise apparatus found in the drawings. This design incorporates multiple, separate pieces that attach to one another to form the device. Once assembled, the device can attach to a tree (or other free-standing support) to operate as a platform for an end user to perform various strength training and toning exercises. One feature of the design allows the end user to rapidly change position of the device on the support. This feature makes the device amenable to many different exercises. Another feature of the design allows the end user to readily disassemble or collapse the structure into a much smaller form-factor. The form-factor may fit into a bag, like a back-pack. As noted herein, the form-factor may form part of an internal frame of the back-pack. This feature allows the end user to easily transport the device with them, for example, as part of a training regimen that includes strength training in a forest. Other embodiments are within the scope of this disclosure.

FIG. 1 depicts, schematically, a perspective view of an example of an exercise apparatus 100. This example can secure to a structure S that may serve as support for an end user to perform exercise movements. Examples include a tree (trunk), post, beam, or column. As also shown, the apparatus 100 may have a strap 102 that terminates on either end at a frame 104. These ends may secure to one end of uprights 106. The other end of the uprights 106 may couple or join with lateral members 108, forming an angle having a value of ninety degrees)(90°) or some other values found advantageous to use or design of the device. Cross members 110 may reside along the length of the lateral members 108. The cross members 110 may include a first or brace member 112 that is closer to proximal ends P of the lateral members 108. A second or exercise member 114 may reside near distal ends D.

Broadly, the exercise apparatus 100 is configured to facilitate outdoor strength training and fitness. These configurations leverage a structure that an end user can assemble and disassemble quickly for ease of transport and use. The structure has sufficient strength or stiffness to support the end user's weight. At the same time, the design also enables the end user to easily re-position the device on structure S to perform different exercises.

The strap 102 may be configured to support hanging weight. These configuration may utilize an elongate material (or materials) that are suitable to carry heavy loads. Preferably, the elongate materials are light weight to facilitate portability of the device. Wire, cable, nylon or polyester cargo webbing may fit the requirements for use. However, this disclosure does not preclude use of other materials (e.g., chain or rope) as necessary. In one implementation, the ends of the elongate material may terminate at a connector, like a clip or a bandolier. This feature allows the end user to releaseably secure the strap 102 to the frame 104, which is particularly helpful to deploy the device for exercise. It may also be helpful for the elongate material to adapt to different lengths. This feature may be integral to the material itself (by way of physical, elastic properties or use of buckles that allow for the elongate material to cinch together or spread apart). Or other parts of the device may adapt to allow the end user to tighten or loosen the strap 102 relative to the structure S.

The frame 104 may be configured for compact storage in its “disassembled” state. These configurations may incorporate sturdy members that embody, for example, hollow or solid tubes. In one implementation, flat plates may prevail. The members may be made of metals (e.g., steels or aluminum), alloys, or composites. Preferably, materials have physical properties (e.g., strength or stiffness) to promote both adequate support of weight of the user, while at the same time limiting overall weight of the apparatus 100. Certain members of the frame 104 may connect by way of welds or like joining technology. These features may form the frame 104 as a solid or unitary structure. However, the frame 104 may benefit from joining devices that can secure the tubes to one another for purposes of quick assembly and disassembly as well. Examples of these joining devices include hinges, pin-and-clevis joints, or other releaseable mechanisms that allow the tubes to separate and re-assemble to one another. This feature allows the end user to change the form-factor to facilitate compact storage of the device. It also allows the end user to rapidly deploy the apparatus 100 for use at a desired location. In one implementation, the tubes and joints may form structure (for example, an internal frame) for a bag or backpack.

The uprights 106 may be configured to secure the elongate material of the strap 102 to the frame 104. These configurations may have “prepared ends,” for example, a device that receives or mates with corresponding ends of the elongate material. These devices may include an eye-bolt with an inner diameter that can receive the clip or the bandolier noted above. Other devices may include a clasp, a hasp, or a buckle that can receive part of the elongate material. These devices may, in turn, allow an end user to change dimensions of the elongate material to properly fit around the structure S.

The lateral members 108 may be configured to extend away from the structure S. These configurations may employ tube(s) with dimensions (e.g., length) to provide the end user with room to perform their desired exercise proximate the distal end D. The tube(s) may incorporate features along its length, like apertures or through-holes, for ingress of a fastener. In one implementation, the fastener may embody a pin that secures the cross members 110 in place on the tube.

The cross members 110 may be configured to connect to each of the lateral members 108. These configurations may employ tube(s) that separate the lateral members 108 a distance W from one another. Other configurations may use soft or malleable braces; while still others may incorporate both rigid and malleable materials. The distance W may accommodate dimensions for the structure S, for example, a diameter (for a tree) of at least ten (10) inches. The tube(s) may have a through-hole or opening to receive the pin that the end user employs to lock the position of the cross member 110 on the lateral members 108.

The brace member 112 may be configured to reside proximate the structure S. As shown, it may come in direct contact the structure S. These configurations may accommodate loads consistent with use of the apparatus 100. In one implementation, the brace member 112 may have a covering disposed along all or part of its length. This covering may provide resistance (e.g., friction) against the structure S. Preference may be given to foam; however other spray on enamels, anodize coatings, or the like may find use in certain applications as well.

The exercise member 114 may be configured for the end user to perform exercises. These configurations may extend beyond the distance W as a single member or two or more distinct members, often in the form of tubes. Portions of exercise member 114 may operate as handholds for certain exercises, like pull-ups or chin-ups. These handholds may include grips, for example, soft or cushion material that is disposed on all or part of the exercise member 114. This material may provide comfort for the end user's hands.

FIG. 2 depicts the exercise apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 in exploded form. In use, the lateral members 108 may slide into openings 116 on the members 112, 114. The lateral members 108 may also secure directly to member 114, if desired. The cross member 112 may install first to locate at the proximal position 118 or be directly secured to proximal end P. The exercise member 114 installs next, sliding to the distal position 120. Pins 122 may insert into corresponding holes to lock the members 112, 114 to prevent axial movement from the positions 118, 120, respectively. Quick release mechanisms may also find use as the joining mechanism here as well. In one implementation, the uprights 106 may install onto the proximal ends P of the lateral members 108. Joining mechanisms may also find use here this purpose. The uprights 106 secure the strap 102 onto the frame 104 to ready the device for use on the structure S.

FIG. 3 depicts an elevation view from the side of the exercise apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 in its initial or assembly position. The end user may assemble the frame 104 on ground G. The end user may then position the frame 104 with the lateral members 108 disposed on either side of the structure S. The strap 102 may wrap around the structure S. The end user may adjust the length of the strap 102 for it and the brace member 112 to contact opposing sides of the structure S.

FIG. 4 depicts the exercise apparatus 100 of FIG. 3 in a transitory state. The end user may grasp the frame 104, for example, by the lateral members 108 to lift the apparatus 100 into position for their workout. In one implementation, the end user may tip or tilt the frame 104 to dislodge the strap 102 from contact with the structure S. The resulting gap G allows the frame 102 to easily move or change position in a vertical direction V, for example, from the assembly position (of FIG. 3) on the ground G to a second or “exercise” position. Notably, the proposed design does not require the end user to adjust or loosen the strap 102 to transition to the exercise position.

FIG. 5 depicts the exercise apparatus 100 of FIG. 2 in an exercise position. In one implementation, the lateral members 108 have a length L that creates a cantilevered load C (about the brace member 112 or “fulcrum”) to maintain the apparatus 100 in its exercise position. This construction forecloses the need for any other load or influence on the device, like the weight of the end user, to prevent a change in position of the apparatus 100. This feature is beneficial because the end user does not need to hold the apparatus 100 in between exercises, allowing for focus on rest and recovery.

FIG. 6 depicts a plan view from the top of the apparatus 100 of FIG. 4. The frame 102 affords the end user with a variety of handholds to perform exercises. End users may grasp the inner portion 126 or the outer portions 128 of the exercise member 114. Alternative exercises may use the end portions 130 of the lateral members 108. In some implementations, the end user may grasp intermediate portions 132 of the lateral members 108 as well.

FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the apparatus 100. The uprights 106 may install in the interior space between the lateral members 108. The brace member 112 reside close to (or at) the proximal end P. In one implementation, the brace member 112 may insert into an opening 134 in each of the members 106, 108. The opening 132 may secure this portion of the frame 104 together. Pins or fasteners may install at an exposed end of the brace member 112. It may benefit the design for the adjoining portions of the brace member 112 and opening 134 to prevent rotation R of the uprights 106 relative to the lateral member 108. In one example, the openings 134 may allow the uprights 106 to slide axially along the brace member 112. This feature may adjust the frame 104 to fit the structure S, for example trees of different diameters.

FIG. 8 depicts an elevation view of the apparatus 100 of FIG. 7. The uprights 106 may extend from a location at or proximate a “front” plane P of the structure S. At the distal end D, the lateral members 108 may have a top end or surface with a detent 136 or scallop. The detent 136 can be configured to receive the exercise member 114. Dimensions for this feature may prevent the exercise member 114 from rolling or transiting out of the detent 136 during exercise.

FIGS. 9, 10, and 11 depict a perspective view of exemplary structure for the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1. A strap 138 may extend between lateral members 108 to form the brace member 112 that contacts the structure S. Down wires 140 may extend from the top of uprights 106 to an affixation point 142, shown here at the distal end D of lateral member 108. Handles 144 may also secure at the distal end D of lateral members 108. The handles 144 may form at least part of the exercise member 114. As best shown in FIG. 10, the frame 104 may incorporate a rotatable joint 146 that allows the handles 144 to rotate inwardly toward the centerline, as indicated by the arrows enumerated R₁. In one implementation, the frame 104 may also include joints 148 at the interface of uprights 106 and lateral members 108. In FIG. 11, the joints 148 may permit rotation R₂ of the lateral members 108 relative to uprights 106. Rotations R₁, R₂ of this device may find use to collapse the structure of the apparatus 100 into a form or form-factor that is smaller than its deployed “exercise” state. This feature can make the device easier to maneuver on and off of the structure S. Likewise, the smaller form-factor may be more amendable to carrying the device, whether in its own bag or other bag the end user may desire.

FIG. 12 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary structure for the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1. The frame 104 may assume a unitary structure 150, for example, as might result from molding or casting the members as a single element. Down wires 140 may secure the unitary structure 50 directly to the strap 102. Teeth 152 on the brace portion 112 of the unitary structure 150 may provide extra stability at its interface with structure S.

In light of the foregoing, the embodiments herein facilitate strength training outdoors. The proposed design provides a collapsible frame that can remain in position on a tree (or like structure) without intervention from the end user. This design also does not require adjustment to transition from one exercise to another.

The examples that appear below may include certain elements or clauses, one or more of which may be combined with other elements and clauses, to describe embodiments contemplated within the scope and spirit of this disclosure. 

1. A exercise apparatus, comprising: a pair of lateral members; a pair of cross members releaseably attached to the lateral members, the pair of cross members spacing the lateral members from one another; a strap member connected to the lateral members and offset vertically from the pair of cross members, wherein the strap member and one of the pair of cross members form opposing contact surfaces when in position on a support.
 2. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein one of the pair of cross members forms handholds.
 3. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein one of the pair of cross members forms handholds having a portion extending to one side of the lateral members.
 4. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: uprights disposed on one end of the lateral members.
 5. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: uprights disposed on one end of the lateral members and connecting the strap to the pair of lateral members.
 6. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: uprights disposed on one end of the lateral members and connected to the lateral members to allow for relative movement between the uprights and the lateral members.
 7. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame comprising uprights connected to lateral members at a joint; a strap connectable to the uprights; a cross-member disposed on a first end of the lateral members; and handles disposed on a second end of the lateral members, wherein the strap and the cross-member contact opposing sides of a structure when carrying a load at the handles.
 8. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the frame forms a cantilevered structure with the handles carrying the load.
 9. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the uprights connect to the first end of the lateral members.
 10. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, further comprising: rotatable joints disposed between the uprights and the lateral members.
 11. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the lateral members are configured to move relative to the uprights.
 12. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the cross-member and the strap comprise material that is the same.
 13. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the cross member comprises a strap.
 14. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the handles are detachable from the frame.
 15. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the handles rotate relative the fame.
 16. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the handles have a portion that extends from the lateral members away from a centerline of the frame.
 17. A kit, comprising: tubes that assemble with one another to form a frame with a pair of lateral members, a pair of uprights, and a cross-member that separates the pair of lateral members; a strap connectable to the frame; and a handle, wherein the strap and frame assemble with one another on a structure to form a cantilevered end at which the handle resides relative to the structure.
 18. The kit of claim 17, further comprising: joints to allow the lateral members and the uprights to rotate relative to one another.
 19. The kit of claim 17, further comprising: joints to allow the handles to rotate relative to one another.
 20. The kit of claim 17, wherein the strap and the cross-member contact surfaces on opposite sides of the structure. 